How to Actually Discover New Music?

Discovering new music can feel overwhelming with so many platforms available today. Yet there are practical ways to find fresh tracks without getting lost in endless playlists. From streaming apps to live DJs, here are the best methods to actually discover music that feels new and personal.

Use Streaming Recommendations

Apps like Spotify, Apple Music, and Deezer use algorithms to suggest songs based on your listening history. Playlists such as “Discover Weekly” or “Release Radar” are built to introduce you to artists you may not know. By liking or skipping songs, you train the platform to improve future recommendations.

Follow DJs and Curators

DJs remain some of the best music curators. Their sets highlight underground tracks and unreleased gems. Following artists such as Play House exposes you to house, afro house, and phonk tracks that do not always appear in mainstream playlists. Many DJs upload live mixes on YouTube or SoundCloud, making it easy to explore their selections.

Explore Niche Playlists

Look beyond the top charts. Independent curators on Spotify, YouTube, and SoundCloud build playlists focused on genres like tribal house, deep techno, or phonk. Subscribing to these playlists helps you find songs outside the mainstream algorithm bubble.

Check Music Communities

Online forums, Reddit threads, and Discord servers often share underground releases before they trend. Communities built around genres or specific DJs provide honest recommendations. Joining artist-led servers, such as those run by rising DJs, offers direct access to fresh sounds.

Go to Live Events

Clubs, bars, and festivals remain some of the best places to discover new music. DJs often test unreleased tracks during live shows. When you hear something that stands out, apps like Shazam or SoundHound can help you identify the song immediately.

Support Independent Artists

Independent musicians often release tracks on Bandcamp, SoundCloud, or their own websites. Exploring these platforms supports smaller creators while giving you access to music that isn’t driven by algorithms. Following their newsletters or social channels ensures you stay updated on new releases.

Conclusion

To actually discover new music, combine streaming tools with human curation. Use algorithms to get started, but explore DJs, playlists, communities, and live events to go deeper. With artists such as Play House offering a steady stream of fresh sounds, there has never been a better time to expand your music library.